Does modifying the front grille require filing with the vehicle management office?
3 Answers
Modifying the front grille requires filing with the vehicle management office. During the annual inspection of motor vehicles, it is necessary to check the appearance. The CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) system is part of the vehicle's exterior, so after modifying the front grille, it must be registered with the vehicle management office, and the photo on the driving license should be replaced. Requirements for modifying the front grille: Modifying the front grille with styles already filed by the manufacturer: Many vehicles offer optional appearance sport kits or some exterior parts when purchasing, and these exterior parts have already been filed with the vehicle management office by the manufacturer; The modified front grille should not change the length and width of the vehicle: According to the latest "Motor Vehicle Inspection Work Regulations," modifying the front grille has been included in the legal scope, but it is important to ensure that the modification does not alter the vehicle's length and width. Main functions of the car front grille: The main functions of the car front grille are for the air intake and ventilation of the radiator, engine, air conditioning, etc., to prevent damage to internal components from foreign objects during driving, as well as for aesthetic and personalization purposes.
Last time I replaced the grille on my old Tiguan, I made a special trip to the DMV. According to regulations, any modification that alters the original vehicle's appearance characteristics requires filing. For example, if you change the standard grille to a honeycomb-style large-mouth design, or add a sports kit that changes the vehicle's length or width, you'll need to have the car re-inspected and photographed. Remember to bring your ID card, vehicle license, and green book to the local DMV. After on-site stamping and inspection, they will update the photo on your vehicle license. If you modify parts with logos, be careful not to make them resemble police car emblems. My friend had to remove and redo his Lexus-style spindle grille modification. Actually, most OEM-style upgrades can pass inspection. Before modifying, it's safest to take a photo of your current vehicle with your phone and consult with the shop.
It depends on how much you modify. My experience with modifying the Civic's front end is: replacing with same-model parts doesn't require registration, like when I replaced the damaged plastic grille with an OEM one—just install it directly. But adding body kits or changing colors must be registered. Last time at the auto parts market, I saw someone with fluorescent mesh wrap who didn't register it—not only did they fail the annual inspection, but they also got fined 200 RMB. Before modifying, it's best to check Article 16 of the traffic laws; if the dimensions change by more than 1%, you'll need to complete paperwork. A heads-up: keeping the original parts is crucial, as you might need to revert for inspections. Also, in the Tesla matte gray owners' group, three people were stopped by traffic police, so now they opt for low-key gray grille mods.
